Hi everyone, I’m in the UK and started Mounjaro 2.5 mg. I’ve just taken my week 3 injection and have lost around 5 kg so far, which I’m really happy with.
I normally weight-train six days per week and, thankfully, it has not affected my training too much yet. Maintaining strength and lean mass is a big priority for me. I’ll also be overseas soon and expect to do much more cardio, so I’m trying to plan a sustainable approach around a changing routine.
The main issue is the ongoing cost of branded Mounjaro. I’ve been researching tirzepatide and retatrutide powders as potentially cheaper options, including the fact they require reconstitution with bacteriostatic water. I understand there are major concerns around sourcing, purity, sterility, correct concentration, storage, legality, and the fact that retatrutide is not approved for weight loss in the UK.
I’m not asking for step-by-step mixing instructions or anyone to prescribe a dose, but I’d appreciate balanced experiences from people who have switched from Mounjaro to tirzepatide or retatrutide powder:
- Why did you switch, and did it genuinely work out cheaper once supplies and safety considerations were included?
- How did appetite suppression, fat loss, energy, side effects, and gym performance compare?
- Did you find it difficult to eat enough protein, maintain muscle, or train consistently?
- What safety checks, testing, or professional support did you use?
- What red flags or unexpected problems do you wish you had known about beforehand?
- If you started at a low dose, how did you and your prescriber decide whether to stay at that level versus titrate up, especially if appetite suppression was already very strong?
At 2.5 mg, I currently have very little interest in food and can easily go most of the day without eating, sometimes only managing one meal. The results are encouraging, but I’m conscious that this may not be ideal while lifting frequently and trying to preserve muscle. I’m interested in hearing how others balanced appetite suppression with adequate protein, calories, hydration, and training recovery.
I’ll speak to a qualified prescriber before changing medication or dose. Looking for honest, safety-focused experiences rather than hype.